With Estate Agents feeling uneasy over the recent spate of opportunistic violence which appears to be targeting this industry, agents have some options to consider for their personal safety. These include hiring security escorts to night time or other meetings, and for show days, carrying non-lethal defence items such as pepper spray or high-voltage energiser units.

Technology can also help, here are 2 great apps that can be used to notify many of your friends and colleagues if you are in trouble, sending your location and other information, like photo, video, text message if you are able. http://redpanicbutton.com/ and http://www.bullhornsapp.com/

Some cell phones offer the facility to dial a preset emergency number from a lock screen, make sure you find out if yours has this and set it up. (iPhone is called Medical ID under the Health App).

Be careful out there – pre-qualify your leads, either at the office or a public place first. If buyers and sellers are not willing to compromise, sometimes your safety and professionalism is more important than a sale.